Sometimes The Actions

SOMETIMES THE ACTIONS of a few people can ruin everybody’s fun. That was the case in 1976 when the College All-Stars faced the Pittsburgh Steelers at Chicago’s Soldier Field.

In 1934, Chicago Tribune sports editor Arch Ward first came up with the idea of an exhibition game that would match a squad of former college senior stars against the defending National Football League champions. For more than 40 years, the contest raised money for charity and served as the kickoff to football season.

But in 1976, a few rowdy fans and bad weather destroyed Ward’s vision. Although the collegians generated little offense, a strong defensive effort held the Steelers to three Roy Gerela field goals in the first half. But after the intermission, the Steelers dominated. A safety and two Pittsburgh touchdowns left the All-Stars down 24–0 as the third quarter drew to a close.

Suddenly, a thunderstorm unleashed its fury on Soldier Field. With lightning flashing in all directions, officials stopped play and sent the teams to the safety of the locker rooms. But the crowd of 52,895 lost control of their senses. Fans spilled onto the playing surface, using the wet field as a gigantic slip-and-slide. The unruly crowd tore down both goalposts. As numerous fistfights erupted throughout the stadium, NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle announced that the game would not continue.

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POINT The officials lost control of the game and the fans after the storm hit. The teams never finished. Really, the collegians didn’t stand much of a chance. After all, the pros had won every contest since 1963. The lightning, thunder, and rain only ended the game sooner.

Then because of waning interest and opposition from owners and players, the game was canceled for good. A great tradition came to a sad conclusion because of some fans.

The fact is, we can’t do whatever we want. Society says to do what feels good or right. But as followers of Jesus Christ, we know we have to obey God’s rules.

God, on the other hand, can do whatever he wants. He controls the heavens and earth. All of his ways are perfect and just.

GOAL! Make up a short psalm or poem praising God for his mighty power. Offer your words as a prayer to the Lord.